Building Partnerships for Peace

In 2010, Finland co-founded the UN Group of Friends for Mediation, now a major diplomatic coalition, to increase the use of mediation and to strengthen the mediation capacities of the United Nations and regional organisations.

Finland is committed to promoting peace mediation as an effective tool for conflict prevention and resolution, with a strong United Nations system at the core. As co-chair of several Groups of Friends in the UN, OSCE, and EU, Finland works to strengthen visibility, support, and the development of mediation structures through close international cooperation.

Recognising today’s complex conflict landscape, Finland emphasizes collaboration across regional boundaries to better understand conflict dynamics and improve mediation efforts. Partnerships with countries such as Kenya, Qatar, South Africa, and Türkiye reflect this approach.

Finland also prioritises inclusive peace mediation to support sustainable peace. This includes advancing the roles of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, as well as sharing best practices. Together with South Africa, Finland have initiated an international pilot project bringing together 15 young people from around the world to build their capacities and networks in peace mediation.

With expertise in areas such as water diplomacy and a strong track record in facilitating dialogue, Finland promotes cooperation between governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders, including the private sector, to enhance mediation efforts.